Paul
James Ryan, 47, died Sunday, April 26, 2009, at his home in
Garfield,
Washington. He was born on
November 27, 1961, in Billingham, England, and met his wife, Frances, in 2002
whilst they were both living in
Edinburgh,
Scotland. Paul
immigrated to America
in April 2005 where he and Frances married on May 21, 2005, in Cle Elum, Wash.

Paul was raised in Billingham where he was
schooled and taught valuable lessons on life. In 1983 he left home to
study in Scotland, where
he lived for 22 years. After receiving a diploma from
NewbattleAbbeyCollege,
he went on to gain a degree from the University
of Edinburgh, and then acquired
a post-graduate diploma from
NapierUniversity.

He built a
career in retail tourism working for Guide Friday, Camera Obscura, EdinburghCastle, and ultimately Whigmaleeries
Limited, where he served as the area manager. It was in Whigmaleeries
that he first met
Frances
in February 2002. They later married in Cle Elum,
Wash., and settled in Garfield, Wash.

Paul was an active
runner and was training for his first marathon before his passing. He
enjoyed traveling, riding bikes, reading, and juggling. Paul was a
loving husband, a treasured brother, and a trusted friend. He brought
joy to everyone who met him and will truly be missed by all.

Paul
was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Evangeline Ryan. He is
survived by his wife, Frances; brothers Michael (Liz) and John (Claire);
sisters Ann (Mick) and Elizabeth; 17 nieces and nephews (aged 5-39); and
one great nephew (aged five).

Funeral
services were held at St. John the
Baptist Catholic Church in Cle Elum followed by grave-side services at Laurel
HillMemorial Park in Cle Elum.
A second service will be held at Our Lady of the
MostHolyRosaryChurch in
Billingham,
England, with grave-side
services at St. Peter’s Church in
Wolviston,
England.

A memorial scholarship has been set up in Paul’s name at the Washington
State University College of Business. Donations in his name may be sent
to WSU College of Business;
PO Box
64487; Pullman,
WA99164-4847.